Dubai's vibrant skyline, luxury residential developments, and commercial growth make it an ideal place to start an interior design company. Whether you're a talented designer or an entrepreneur interested in starting an interior design business in Dubai, knowing what's required, the approvals, and the realistic costs associated with an interior design license in Dubai are very important. This guide walks you through the entire process, from ideation to licensing, to government approvals, and cost planning, with up-to-date figures that are in line with Dubai government standards.
Dubai's construction and real estate industries are still on the rise, creating strong demand for creative services to enhance the beauty of interiors and living spaces. This makes the city a lucrative market for designers who wish interior design company setup in Dubai and establish a profitable operation.
Thriving property market with constant residential and commercial fit-outs
High purchasing power among clients who appreciate bespoke design
Pro-business environment and digital licensing systems
Strategic location, connecting markets, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
Whether you are interested in luxury villas, office interiors, or hospitality projects, the city's varied market is providing good demand for interior design services.
One of the first questions when you start an interior design company in Dubai is where to register and which license type to obtain:
Mainland (DED) vs Free Zone
Mainland (via Dubai Economic Department — DED):
Offers direct access to the UAE local market.
Requires a physical office space (Ejari) as part of the interior design company registration in Dubai.
Better suited to you if you intend to secure local contracts in addition to cross-border clients.
Foreign investors may own 100% of several professional activities, including design services.
Free Zone:
Best suited for international services and companies not bound to direct contracts with the UAE mainland.
Provides 100% foreign ownership, easy setup, and packaged office offers.
Examples of creative industries include Dubai Design District (D3) and other free zones offering business-friendly packages.
Both jurisdictions offer an interior design license for the Dubai route, though the costs and the path to administration differ.
To legally operate, you need a professional services license that allows consultancy and creative design activities. In Dubai, this typically falls under a professional trade license.
Key Steps in the Company Formation Process in Dubai
Trade name selection
Choose a compliant trade name in line with UAE naming regulations.
Initial approval
Obtain confirmation from the relevant authority that the proposed interior design activity is permitted.
Office lease & Ejari (Mainland only)
Register a physical office space and Ejari, as required for mainland licensing.
Final license issuance
Once all approvals are completed and official fees are paid; the interior design trade license is issued.
Visa processing
Apply for investor and/or employee visas after license activation through the relevant immigration authority.
These steps follow the process for setting up an interior design company in Dubai and ensure operations comply with Dubai’s legal framework.
Besides a trade license, there can be some external approvals required for specific projects, depending on the nature of work:
To conduct workshops in Dubai, they must obtain approval from the Dubai Municipality. For certain interior fit-outs or structural works, mainly commercial or hospitality fit-outs (varies by activity).
Civil Defense or safety certifications - If your designs involve modifications affecting safety systems.
Verification of Ejari contract registration- Registration of the Ejari lease contract is mandatory for mainland companies to validate office space.
These form part of the approvals for interior design companies in Dubai, but smaller consultancy-only activities may not require external clearances.
Startup costs may vary depending upon your choice of jurisdiction, office size, visas, and other approvals. The following is an exact breakdown of costs based on the Dubai government fees structure and industry-accepted data.
B. Office & Physical Space Costs
A physical office is a requirement for most corporate entities in Dubai:
Mainland office rent: 15,000 – 50,000+ AED per year, depending on size and location.
Ejari registration: around 200-500 AED (as part of official processing fee)
Free Zone desk/office packages: starting from AED 6000 - 30,000+ AED based on the package
C. Visa & Immigration Costs
Each residence visa (investor or employee) typically costs:
Investor/Partner Visa: Approx. AED 3500 - 5000.
Employee Visa (per person): Approx. AED 4,000 - 7,000.
Emirates ID and medical tests will be charged separately depending on the location and medical issue .
Frequently Asked Questions
Dubai Mainland: 3–5 working days, subject to completion of documents and any required third-party approvals.
Free Zone: 1–3 working days, provided all documents are complete and approved.
Starting an interior design company in Dubai is more than getting a license. It needs the right structure, regulatory alignment, and continuous compliance to enable long-term growth. Businesses that implement best practices from the start are better positioned to scale, build client confidence, and operate smoothly.
Whether you are starting a design studio or an existing consultancy, proper setup ensures stability and future readiness.
Reach out to AMCA for expert support in company formation, licensing, and compliance, and partner with professionals who help you build your business the right way from day one.
Compliance and ongoing advisory services. Contact us today and take the first step toward building a well-structured and future-ready business in Dubai.
08 Jan 2026
